PGE, PacifiCorp likely to get electricity rate increases

Portland-area residents will be paying more for their electricity next year.

The Oregon Public Utility Commission staff announced Thursday that they negotiated revised electricity rate increases with Portland General Electric and PacifiCorp, the two largest Oregon electricity providers.

PGE had requested a 6.2 percent overall increase, or $105 million more revenue per year, in its electricity rates. Under the level negotiated with PUC staff, it would settle for a 5.1 percent increase for residential customers and a 3.1 percent increase for commercial and industrial customers.

PacifiCorp had sought a 4.6 percent overall increase, generating $56 million a year in more revenue. Instead, it would settle for a 1.55 percent residential rate increase and a 2.32 percent increase for commercial and industrial customers.

Both negotiated deals must still be ratified by the three PUC commissioners.